Phone: 403-244-3344    Email Administration at admin@aislingonline.com Dr. Litvack at willa.litvack@aislingonline.com Located in northwest Calgary, near the University of Calgary, the Foothills and Alberta Childrens’ Hospitals, and Market Mall Aisling Psychology & Counselling Dr. Willa Litvack Registered Psychologist © 2011 AISLING BY: NETMATRIX Depression is the most common of psychological disorders. (Approximately 12% of Canadians will  experience one or more episodes during their lifetime.) Sometimes, depression is clearly a reaction to particular events or circumstances but, often, its causes are unclear.  However, even when it seems to come out of nowhere, depression - like physical pain, is almost always a signal that something in our lives or in ourselves needs healing or attention. Depression affects us physically, mentally, emotionally, and behaviorally. Symptoms vary in severity and may include: Low energy, fatigue,  loss of motivation. and six Insomnia, interrupted sleep, or the urge to sleep excessively. Over-eating or lack of  appetite Loss of sex drive. Loss of interest in and enjoyment of  previously pleasurable activities and relationships Low mood, feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Irritability and anger. Inappropriate or excessive guilt or self-criticism, feelings of worthlessness or inadequacy. Withdrawal from family, friends and activities. Difficulty concentrating , thinking clearly, or making decisions.Thoughts of death o suicide. A tendency to  focus on or  magnify that which is negative, and  to fail to see or to minimize the positive. Depression can be diagnosed by either a physician or a registered psychologist and, often, both professionals play a role.   The first line of treatment  for depression is psychological counseling but  treatment may also involve the use of antidepressant medication.  Counselling helps people understand and address the causes of their depression, alter depressogentic patterns, and make the changes they need to restore well-being and prevent relapse. Medication provides symptom relief and, because they are feeling better, may help them work more effectively towards recovery. DEPRESSION